Halawa (or halva) is a sweet, dense treat made primarily from tahini (sesame paste) and sugar. The plain version of halawa is typically made by combining these two ingredients with a bit of vanilla or rose water for flavor, resulting in a smooth, fudgy texture with a slightly crumbly bite.
The flavor is rich, nutty, and subtly sweet, with the sesame’s earthy taste shining through. Halawa is often cut into blocks or slices, and its consistency can range from soft and smooth to a bit firmer, depending on the specific recipe. It’s a popular dessert or snack in many Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and North African countries, enjoyed on its own or sometimes paired with nuts, fruit, or even a drizzle of honey. It’s a nutritious option, providing healthy fats from the sesame seeds, but is also quite indulgent due to its sugary sweetness.
